Mss Eur F699/1/1/1/21

Correspondence from Sir John Lawrence. Letters numbered 1-93 with index and detailed summaries.

Also includes loose letter from Mr Layard to Kaye, about an expedition with 'His Highness' to the Review at Southsea, 23 Apr 1869. This was probably used by the historian, later Sir John Kaye, as a bookmark. There is some evidence that he used the Canning papers for his book A History of the Sepoy war in India, 1857-1858 (London, 1864-1876).

1. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 23 Mar 1856. Reports all quiet on the Frontier, though the Bozdars, an independent tribe, still continue to give trouble, and they will almost certainly break out again when they have got in their harvest. Brigadier Chamberlain is anxious that an expedition should be sent against them. The writer's Military Secretary Major Macpherson has been ordered to sea, suggests that Sir John's brother Captain R Lawrence might act for him.

2. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 10 Apr 1856. Thanks Lord Canning for his note, it would have enhanced the value of Her Majesty's favour had the news of the writer's honour arrived in time to have heard of it from Lord Dalhousie. Will attempt nothing against the Bozdars this season, unless an emergency should arise. Major Nicholson is unwell and would like to go to Cashmere on duty for the season. Cashmere is a favourite resort for regimental officers on leave, some of them behave very badly once out of British jurisdiction. A Government official in Cashmere might prevent this; Sir John would be glad to help Nicholson, who is not very contented at present. There is a report in the Bazaar at Lahore that Dost Mahommed has been defeated at Kandahar. Is about to send up a proposal to cut down the number of Executive Officers in the Public Works Department. Endorsed: See Number 3. Governor General's Book Number 51. Governor General's reply dated 24 Apr.

3. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 13 Apr 1856. Sends a letter from Nicholson, who wishes to go to Bhurtpore. Sir John sees that it is useless to try to retain Major Nicholson in the Punjab. He is an officer of great natural ability and force of character, and has done excellent service on the Frontier. Suggests that Captain James, Deputy Commissioner of Peshawur, might be sent to Cashmere. Does not know whom to make District Officer of Peshawur, perhaps Lieutenant Urmston as a temporary measure. Endorsed: See Number 3. Governor General's Book Number 51. Governor General's reply dated 24 Apr. Paper annexed: letter from John Nicholson to Sir J Lawrence, Bunnoo, 9 Apr, Nicholson has heard that he has been recommended by Sir Henry Lawrence for the Political Agency at Bhurtpore. If Sir John supports the application, the post will be given him. When Sir John refused to help Nicholson to leave the Punjab some months before, he did so on the grounds that Nicholson was useful to him. Now Nicholson assures Lawrence that he is of no more use, it would be as unwise to try and keep him because he has been useful, as for a man to keep a mad dog because he had once been a good one. Hopes he will not become an enemy of Sir John. If Sir John had any friendly feeling towards him, he would not keep him in the Punjab where he is useless and unhappy. He would rather be under canvas on the way to Bhurtpore than in Cashmere.

4. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 17 Apr 1856. Replies about troops that could be sent from the Punjab to Persia. The regiments could be sent down the Indus. He would give the command to Major Nicholson or Major Coke. Brigadier Chamberlain would jump at such a command, for which he is admirably suited. But it is probably better to keep him where he is. Lawrence does not believe that Persia will persist in her attack on Herat if Russia is sincere in her desire of peace. If Russian support is not forthcoming, the Persians will withdraw from their present attitude when they believe the British will go to war. Can spare only a few Irregular troops from the Punjab. All is quiet at present, but the least disturbance on the Frontier would probably throw the whole territory into confusion. Urges the importance of the selection of the right officer to command the whole Persian force.

5. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 30 Apr 1856. Reports his arrival at Rawalpindee, en route for Murree, where he proposes to spend the next 5 months. Murree is very well placed to observe the whole Frontier, and Lawrence was told by his doctor to leave Lahore.

6. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 3 May 1856. Lawrence has telegraphed the news of Herat. It is still possible that the Shahzedeh is playing a double game, Dost Mahomed seems to doubt his good faith. The Dost renews his request for muskets, Lawrence believes they should be given to him. If the news from Herat is true, it seems that Russia cannot be sincere in her desire for peace. Does not think that Persia can be acting on former instructions, for there has been plenty of time for Persia to learn that peace is contemplated in Europe. Probably it will afterwards be learnt that the fall of Kars and the misfortunes of the Turkish troops in Asia Minor contributed much to the movement on Herat. If any of the Punjab Irregulars are to be sent to Persia, would like as much warning as possible.

7. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 23 May 1856. Thinks that the last news from Herat shows beyond doubt that the Persians are at Herat and that Shahzadah Mahomed Yoosuf is in league with them. Dost Mahomed's position will become very difficult. Affairs at Kandahar are becoming more complicated, and with so large a number of Afghans against him, the Dost may not be able to hold his own against the Persians, unless he is strongly supported by the British. Asks if Captain Adams may be made 1st class Assistant Commissioner in the Punjab.

8. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 4 Jun 1856. Has sent on Lord Canning's letter to Dost Mahomed. The Dost may be dissatisfied, but should understand the British delay. If money is given to the Amir, suggests that there should be no security taken for its proper expenditure; and that no attempt be made to control the Amir's movements.

9. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 4 Jun 1856. Has heard that Colonel Fraser may be made Chief Engineer in Oudh; hopes he will be allowed to remain in the Punjab until Colonel Napier returns. There is no-one to take his place, and the Public Works Department is still disorderly and the officers undisciplined.

10. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 12 Jun 1856. Has received Despatches from Colonel Edwardes with news from Kandahar up to 18 May. The Dost's position seems to have improved, and the Persian Army has fallen back from Berat. Sends a letter in favour of Lieutenant Browne, Her Majesty's 81st, and comments; asks that he be made Inspector of Education in the Punjab, temporarily. Asks if he may send a lithograph of a group of the 4th Punjab Rifles to Lord Canning. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from R Temple to Mr Coupe, Lahore, 10 Apr, on Lieutenant Browne's case.

10a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 23 Jun 1856. Thanks Lord Canning for his consideration about Colonel Fraser. Describes the character of Major Anderson. Makes general remarks on the lack of discipline among the Bengal Engineers. Suggests that except in cases of real emergency, no money be spent on public works after the submission of estimates; and that assignments be only allowed with the concurrence of the chief Civil authority. Also that accounts should be kept regularly, and that diaries of correspondence and progress reports be furnished. Suggests this be implemented in Oudh. Asks Lord Canning to treat Lawrence's letters as for his eyes alone. In this way he may write more freely. He will write nothing but the truth, his feelings are so strongly enlisted in his public duties that he could almost say that he had no friends independent of such considerations: his best friends are the officers of whom he thinks most in his public relations.

11. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 2 Jul 1856. Has sent off the lithograph of the 4th Punjab Infantry. Hopes that he will one day be able to show Lord Canning the Punjab. The Bozdars are about to raid the Derah Ghazee Khan Frontier.

12. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 3 Jul 1856. Sends an extract of a letter from Major Nicholson in Cashmere. At present he has no authority to interfere in disputes there, suggests this authority be given. In 1846 the British interfered successfully in an attempted conquest of Cashmere. Sir Henry Lawrence mediated between the Maharajah and the hostile tribesmen, and a settlement was reached. Now the Maharajah has resumed nearly all the grants he then made. Asks if Lord Canning wishes to ignore the matter, or to remonstrate with the Maharajah. Wishes that there was a permanent Agent in Cashmere. Paper annexed: Extract from a letter from Major J Nicholson to Sir J Lawrence, Srinuggur, 27 Jun, asking if he has any power to interfere in criminal cases between subjects of British India, and subjects of Cashmere. The Hindustani camp followers are liable to take advantage of the absence of any court to which they are amenable. Nicholson has heard that some of the Jagheerdars whose estates have been confiscated since Nicholson last visited Cashmere, intend to bring their cases before him. Asks if the confiscations were made with Sir John's knowledge or approval.

13. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 9 Jul 1856. Sends a copy of a letter to Colonel Birch., with comments. Dost not think the proposal to move European troops from Peshawur to a position in the Khuttuck Hills a good one, gives his reasons. Recommends Noushera instead. Paper annexed: copy of letter from Lawrence to Colonal Birch, Secretary to Government of India, Military Department, not dated, objecting to the proposal to send some European troops to the Khuttuck Hills to a temporary sanatorium.

14. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 5 Aug 1856. Lawrence has received three letters from Lord Canning, all of which were open. Lawrence thinks they were open because of the excessive rain, they did not seem to have been read. Suggests using waxcloth envelopes during the rains. Describes Lieutenant Henderson's character. Hopes Henderson will not be moved from the Punjab before Nov or if possible before Feb 1857.

15. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 5 Aug 1856. Lawrence can hardly believe that the Persians have reached as far south as Julk in the Khelat country. Colonel Jacob would easily obtain authentic news. Does not know which place is meant by the Khan of Khelat by 'Baneh' in Khelat. Discusses the speed at which troops could be sent from the Punjab to Kurrachee. Discusses what is known of the Dost's health. If the Dost died Afghanistan would split up into factions. Discusses three sons of the Dost. Thinks it would be well to assume that the Dost will take a decided part in the war with Persia, and send him some arms and money.

16. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 7 Aug 1856. Lawrence has written to Nicholson to exercise jurisdiction over Hindustanis and camp followers in Cashmere, when the Maharajah will not do so. He will not interfere in the matter of the Jagheerdars. Does not think there should be a permanent Agent in Cashmere, but that an officer should be sent there every hot season. The Maharajah of Cashmere has sent an expedition against Gilgit. Lawrence sends a note from Captain McNeill. Paper annexed: letter from W McNeill to Lawrence, Leia, 29 Jul. McNeill has been remanded to regimental duty in consequence of promotion in the regiment. Asks Lawrence to intercede for him to allow him to remain at his post of the Officiating charge of the Leia District.

17. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 8 Aug 1856. Lawrence has learnt from a Persian that there is a tract called Bana near Julk, about 14 marches from the Persian Province of Kerman. No doubt it is true that the Persians have made demonstrations on that side. Informs Lord Canning that about two years before he had corresponded with Lord Dalhousie on the subject of assisting the Afghans with money if a Russo-Persian Army should advance on India. At that time Lawrence was against the measure, believing, as he still believes, that the Afghans might turn against British India. There is always a strong opposition party in Afghanistan which sides with invaders in the hope of coming out on top. At present however a moderate amount of money would enable the Dost to take the field against the Persians at Herat.

18. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 9 Aug 1856. Sends a list of officers who could command an expedition into Persia, with comments. His first choice is his brother Henry, and his second, Colonel Cotton. Also comments on General P Grant, Sir John Cheape, Sir Hugh Wheeler, General Penny, Colonel Bradfort, General Hearsey, Lieutenant Colonel Colin Troup, Lieutenant Colonel Jacob, Brigadier Chamberlain, Colonel Havelock, Colonel Franks, Colonel Napier, Colonel Fraser, Lieutenant Colonel Durand. Sir John speaks of his brother in glowing terms. They have a real affection for each other, though they have often disagreed in public and were for a time estranged. Discusses river transport for the troops, the number of men for the expedition.

19. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 10 Aug 1856. Suggests that should Brigadier Cotton or any other officer without much political knowledge command the Persian Expedition, Lieutenant Colonel Edwardes be sent also as Political Adviser. Would however prefer a man with political, ability, suggests that failing Sir Henry Lawrence, General Outram might serve, or Lieutenant Colonel Jacob, for the command. Jacob's great defect is an acrimonious temper and overweening vanity.

20. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 18 Aug 1856. Reports the arrival of Futteh Khan Bahadoor and a Munshee whom Colonel Edwardes sent with him to Kabul, with a copy of the Treaty which the Amir has sealed (but added no words by way of agreement or ratification). Futteh Khan states that the Dost was in fair health when he left Kandahar, but it was the general opinion that he had not long to live. Comments on the state of the Afghan army, and on the factions inside Afghanistan. It is clear that the Amir has not the means of moving on Herat. Apart from money, food seems scarce at Kandahar. Probably 5 lakhs at least would be required to enable the Amir to move on Herat, and another 5 lakhs on his arrival. Unless the British operate effectively on the seaboard, doubts if the Dost will face the Persians at Herat, even if Esan Khan remains staunch.

21. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 22 Aug 1856. Has just heard from Colonel Edwardes that two Envoys from Esan Khan of Herat have arrived; they describe the Persian Force before Herat, and the forces in Herat. Herat can probably be held for several months, unless there is treachery. Esan Khan wishes the British Government to accept Herat, and retain him as its Vizier; in other words, he wishes the British to defend the place. Lawrence corrects a mistake he made in his letter of 5 Aug. about the name of the Dost's eldest son. It is said that the King of Bokhara has taken Shikkarghan (?) and threatens Afzul Khan, who has applies for aid to his father the Dost. Regrets the death of Major Sharpe of the Engineers at Lahore from cholera.

22. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 28 Aug 1856. Lawrence has sent off for the information of Government all the news he has been able to gather from the Envoys from Herat, which is not much. Doubts if Herat can hold out for any length of time, and any real co-operation between Amir Dost Mahommed and Esan Khan seems unlikely. Sir John believes that some of the Afghans would under certain circumstances join the Persians.

23. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 1 Sep 1856. Replies about the Bills for the 2 lakhs which are to be sent to the Amir with Lord Canning's letter. Bills for 3 lakhs of Rupees will be bought in the Umritsur and Shikarpoor markets. Lawrence has written to the Amir explaining that he would prefer the muskets to be sent up the Khyber Pass. Describes the arrangements for sending the muskets. Lawrence has telegraphed to Lord Canning that Major Lumsden is just the man to go to Kandahar. Lumsden might be asked to name three officers, one of whom would be picked to accompany him. The guard should be 10 to 20 Guides

24. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 6 Sep 1856. Lawrence has just sent off two official letters on two very important subjects, on which he comments. The first is the transfer of the Military Cantonment from Derah Ismeil Khan to a place close under the Hills. Believes this will add greatly to the security of the Frontier. The second subject is the transfer of two Sikh Local Corps to the Frontier, and the withdrawal of two Police Battalions. This will help to strengthen the Frontier. Proposes to submit a memorandum on the military arrangements in Peshawur. Sir Henry Lawrence suggested that Peshawur and the country in front of it should be held with Irregular troops and that the Regulars be held further back. Lord Dalhousie wished that this plan had been adopted. Lawrence thinks this plan might be carried out with some modifications.

25. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 9 Sep 1856. Asks that Mr A A Roberts, now Civil and Sessions Judge in the Saugor and Nerbudda Territories, be appointed as Commissioner of the Lahore Division.

26. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 9 Sep 1856. Has only been able to procure 1 lakh of Rupees on the Cabul market, which has been despatched. Further Bills will follow. Sends a letter from Brigadier Chamberlain. It is important that the Regiments which are employed on the Merenzai expedition should have their full complement of officers, Lawrence wishes to ask the General at Peshawur to allow him to fill up the vacancies temporarily. Paper annexed: letter from Neville Chamberlain to Sir John Lawrence, Abbottabad, 6 Sep, he hopes the vacancies among the officers of the Punjab Irregular Force will be filled up by good men.

27. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 23 Sep 185. Sends a copy of a letter to Lieutenant Urmston to show what has been done about Esan Khan and Berat. Thinks the money may safely be sent. There should not be any difficulty about the arms. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Sir J Lawrence to Lieutenant Urmston, Officiating Deputy Commissioner Peshawur, 23 Sep, asking him to find out the most secure way of sending 2 lakhs of Rupees to Esan Khan the present master of Herat. The money may be sent at once, should the method of sending it seem satisfactory. It seems unlikely that Bills are procurable on Herat, but Bills on Kabul or Kandahar will probably be negotiable in Herat. Cash could be sent if the merchants were willing to undertake the risk themselves. Esan Khan's two emissaries should be consulted. A native Agent might go to Herat with the Bills and bring back a receipt. The cash should only be paid to Esan Khan, or if he is dead, to the Governor of Herat, if it is still holding out against the Persians. The two envoys might return to Herat with the Bills. They should be given 500 Rupees each on departure, and paid their daily allowance until they enter the Khyber. Secret.

28. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 2 Oct 1856. Reports that 2 lakhs of Rupees for the Amir have been sent from Peshawur; but there will be some delay before he receives the remaining 3 lakhs. Colonel Jacob will send the Amir the money; the Shikarpoor merchants refused to give Bills on Kandahar or Kabul. The arms will take some time to reach the Amir. There is difficulty in sending money to Esan Khan. The merchants will not give Bills except through the Amir, while the envoys say that in that case none of the money will reach Esan Khan. Lawrence has however decided to send the money through the Amir. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from the Chief Commissioner of the Punjab to Lieutenant Urmston, Officiating Deputy Commissioner Peshawur, Murree, 1 Oct, directing him to send the 2 lakhs to Esan Khan in Bills, with the knowledge and consent of the Amir. Secret. By Express.

29. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 4 Oct 1856. Is afraid that the revised estimates for the Bari Doab Canal will appal Lord Canning; but the work is a magnificent one. Lawrence wishes to add another Commissioner to the Punjab, as the work continues to increase. Even an officer of great ability such as Edmonstone could not have continued as Commissioner of the Cis Sutlej Division for very long. Comments on the duties of the Civil officers.

30. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 4 Oct 1856. Writes asking if his brother George's son-in-law Lieutenant H E Forbes, 1st Bombay Cavalry, may be made an Assistant Commissioner in the Punjab.

31. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 7 Oct 1856. Has heard that Furrut has fallen to the Persians, and that the Amir had left Kandahar for Kabul on 15 Sep. The Amir wrote on 21 Sep from Khelat-i-Gilzei saying that all was well and that he had dismissed the Persian Envoy with a rough message. Lawrence presumes that the Amir comes to Kabul to make sure of his ground before he commits himself finally with Persia. He is probably not strong enough to move against Herat at present. Money will be his great demand probably. Lawrence asks for the Governor General's views; believes the Amir might be promised 10 lakhs a year as long as the war with Persia lasts. At the moment the Amir's interests are identical with those of British India, how long this will remain so is doubtful, but the chance of a diversion by the Dost on the Herat side against Persia is worth risking. In the event of the Dost's death, no other Afghan leader could do this. To occupy and hold Afghanistan for any time would cost Russia and Persia an immense sum of money, unless they advanced at once on India at the risk of their armies being destroyed. Persia alone could never hold Afghanistan. For these reasons Sir John does not feel so anxious about Herat as others do. Thanks Lord Canning for his kind expressions about the administration of the Punjab. Will make further inquiries about the wearing of beards in the Army. Comments on the dangers of all the men in a native Regiment coming from similar families: they are all of one mind when dissatisfied. Will encourage the Amir, has noted the instructions to advance up to 10 lakhs. Hears that the arms have arrived at Kurrachee. Comments on the difficulty of finding an officer to command the Persian Expedition. Mr Calthorpe has been given leave to join the Merenzai expedition.

32. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Treit [?],13 Oct 1856. Has sent 1 lakh to Herat through Dost Mahomed. The other lakh will be sent in 10 Bills, in which Lawrence promises to pay the money within two years to anyone who produces the receipt of Ese Khan, or the Governor of Herat, and the Bill. Sends a letter. Captain Wilde would be a great loss to the Irregular Force, being one of the best officers in the service. Lawrence is sending up a correspondence about the general promotion of officers in the Public Works Department. Lawrence has refused to recommend a number of officers for promotion, though many of them are able, to show them that orders must be obeyed and accounts must be furnished. Though improved, the Department is still as much trouble as all the rest of the Punjab together. Has sent his paper on troops in the Peshawur valley to Edwardes and Chamberlain for criticism. Paper annexed: letter from Brigadier Chamberlain, endorsed on a letter from Captain Wilde, who is in danger of being remanded to his Regiment because of the increase in the number of regimental officers.

32a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 17 Oct 1856. Comments on a letter from the Government asking which of the three sets of condemned barracks at Ferozepore, Umballa and Wuzeerabad might be adapted best for the accommodation of a European Regiment of Infantry. Suggests the best permanent station would be Rawalpindee which is preferable to Umballa. With three European regiments in the Simla Hills, one at Ferozepore and one at Lahore, no more European regiments are needed east of the Chenab.

33. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 23 Oct 1856. Thanks Lord Canning for his note of the 13th. The Governor General will now know of the plan of sending 1 lakh to Esa Khan in Bills drawn on Lawrence. Explains why he preferred Mr Penn to Lieutenant Maxwell for the Simla post. Lawrence has been deeply mortified by the Court of Directors blaming him for the mismanagement of the Public Works Department; blames Colonel Napier. From Rawalpindee.

34. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 29 Oct 1856. Has telegraphed the essence of Dost Mahommed's letter of the 20th. Lawrence doubts whether the Dost will move on Herat, unless provided with huge sums by the Government. Also believes he will not move until spring. Suggests the Amir be asked for a clear outline of the policy he intends, and a specification of the money he needs. Sends a note from Colonel Edwardes on the punishment of the people of Torawuree for refusing to give up certain murderers. Paper annexed: note from Colonel Edwardes to Sir John Lawrence, 25 Oct, describing the punishment of Torawurree village.

35. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 4 Nov 1856. Explains why he made the Bills for the Herat money valid for two years. Those at Peshawur who proposed the arrangement suggested that the term should be indefinite. Bills from Conolly and Stoddart, who were murdered in Bokhara, were not presented for 10 years. Thanks Lord Canning for the exception made in the case of Captain Wilde. Praises Brigadier Chamberlain. Has not yet received Edwardes' comments on the Peshawur troop arrangements. Describes the present dispositions of he European Regiments on the Frontier. Believes that there is a great shortage of European Infantry in India. These are the troops on which all depends in times of difficulty, they lead in battle, make up for the deficiencies of the Generals, and suffer the heaviest losses. Native troops are nothing like as good as European. Believes that the regular native army should be reduced, the rough work done with the irregulars, and the Europeans increased. The cry for more officers with Regiments is a mistake, they have no work to do.

36. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 4 Nov 1856. With reference to Edmonstone's telegram, will remain at Rawalpindee for the present and go on towards Merenzai on hearing again from Edwardes. Doubts very much if the Amir himself will come down to a meeting, and even if he does, it seems questionable if he will act decisively. Thinks that an officer should be ready, should an arrangement be effected, to go up to Kabul with the Amir or his representative. If Major Lumsden is selected, his brother Lieutenant P Lumsden might go with him. Edwardes is to arrange all the details of the meeting with the Amir. Lawrence is ready to move up to the Khurrum at a day’s notice.

37. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 11 Nov 1856. Thinks it better that the officers in Afghanistan should belong to his Presidency. Major North is well thought of, but the Lumsdens would be better. If North is to go, he should join Lawrence at once. North might go to Kandahar and Major Lumsden to Kabul. Edwardes has invited the Amir down, and thinks that Lawrence should be present. The arrangements seem to be clear and simple, except the one noted by Lord Canning. The Amir will not like the proposal that the subsidy shall cease when Herat falls. Thinks it better that the subsidy should continue for a given time after the fall of Herat. The best chance for the security of Herat is that it should form a part of the Afghan Kingdom. There are 31 Regiments of European Infantry in India, i.e. 18 in Bengal, 6 in Madras and 7 in Bombay. For any long term three are quite as many as can be spared, and it is safer with them all. In an emergency three more regiments might be spared, if their place were supplied in 6 months. Thinks it would be wise to add 20,000 European Infantry to the troops in India. Lawrence has no doubt that the Amir will not object to a monthly payment of his subsidy, but it will be difficult to send. In any case he will ask for a large sum before his troops take the field. The Accountant at Agra should arrange for more money to be sent to Peshawur.

38. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 12 Nov 1856. Sends a paper on the troops in the Peshawur valley (not annexed), with comments. Advocates the reduction of the Native Infantry. It is wrong to add to the native troops without adding in due proportion to the European troops. Did not propose to remove the European troops from Peshawur, their health does not suffer as much as the health of the native regulars. Where the Europeans are cantoned in the plains, with the exception of Rawalpindee, the mortality will always be high. Suggests ways of reducing this. Shumshabad might be tried out as an alternative to Peshawur. Suggests that the barracks at Peshawur be left standing at all events.

39. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 14 Nov 1856. Has made inquiries about the beard question. Most of the Mahomedan Punjabis complied with the order, rather than take their discharge. There is no doubt that they were told when they enlisted of the order. But it seems to have been a great mistake allowing the order to remain in abeyance as it must have led the men to infer it would not be carried out. A Syud who showed a mutinous spirit on the subject was sentenced to a year's imprisonment. Lawrence thinks the order will increase the difficulty of enlistment and the temptation to desertion.

40. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 14 Nov 1856. Remarks on the regimental promotion of Lieutenant Forbes, 1st Bombay Cavalry and Lieutenant Miller, 1st Bombay Fusiliers; suggests in consequence Captain Adams, 12th Native Infantry or Captain McAndrew, 47th Native Infantry for the vacancy as Captain of Police in the Punjab. Endorsed: note by Lord Canning. Lieutenant Miller need not leave his post at present.

41. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, two marches from Rawalpindee, 18 Nov 1856. Sends two returns showing the state of the troops during the three sickly months, Aug - Oct, at Peshawur. The native troops suffer more than the Europeans, and the Artillery much less than the others, probably because they are not subject to much night duty as patrols and sentries. One side of cantonments appears to be more unhealthy than the other. Lawrence is on his way to Kohat. Papers annexed: Two returns which show the sickness and mortality at Peshawur, Aug - Oct 1856.

42. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Khooshabghur, right bank of the Indus, 21 Nov 1856. Has just received a letter from the Amir, dated Kabul, 14 Nov, enclosing a note with the news that Herat fell into the hands of the Persians on 25 Oct. It seems less likely now that the Amir will come to the meeting. Asks if the Government instructions will be changed. If the Dost could not move on Herat before, he has now no chance of being able to displace the Persians. Discusses the course to be taken in dealing with his requests.

43. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Kohat, 26 Nov 1856. Sends a memorandum received from Colonel Edwardes (marked in margin: Miscellaneous Bundle Number 95). Cannot agree with Edwardes; it would be a fatal error to interfere in Central Asia. Sends extract of a letter he wrote to Edwardes on the subject, (marked in margin: Miscellaneous Bundle Number 95) Believes Herat is now a place of considerable strength, it was fortified under the directions of the British. Comments on the difficulties of sending an Army through Afghanistan to Herat. Is equally averse to the plan of sending an Irregular Force to garrison Kandahar. The Afghans are likely to join a foreign invader who offers them Kashmir and Peshawur. If a force is sent to Kandahar it will eventually lead to the occupation of the country at enormous expense; Afghanistan would become the battle field for India. If Afghanistan is left alone, and troops concentrated on the plain, an invader could be fought as he descended the passes, worn by the crossing of Afghanistan and distant from his resources. In such circumstances defeat should be certain, and defeat would be annihilation. Neither money to maintain a force at Kandahar, nor the force itself, can be spared.

44. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Peshawur, 30 Nov 1856. Sends a note received from Colonel Edwardes (not annexed) in which he explains that the Amir's Agent considers Kandahar to be perfectly secure. Is convinced that no troops should be sent from India to Kandahar or Herat. Thinks Herat might be given to the Afghans if possible; but this is probably not worth any great sacrifice. Does not see how Herat could be taken by an army from India.

45. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp near Jumnnah, 27 Jan 1857. Has sent His Excellency with the Articles of Agreement, some of Lieutenant Fane's sketches, including one of the Amir. Lawrence and Edwardes have done all in their power to cement the new alliance with the Amir. Lawrence was not favourably impressed by the Afghan leaders, and does not think they are to be relied upon. The Amir has made himself very unpopular. The Afghans will not retake Herat, but should be able to maintain their position, or at least prevent the Persians holding Kandahar for long, should it fall. The officers for Kandahar should start as soon as possible. The Amir will not have officers in Kabul, though the Sirdars would be pleased to see them there as a counterpoise to the Amir. This is a strong argument for not sending them.

46. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Peshawur, 30 Jan 1857. Sends a memorandum of some official documents which Major Lumsden would like to have (not annexed). The border has been disturbed by the Bozdars, asks for approval to attack them. Would also like to attack the Museood Wuzerees.

47. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Peshawur, 30 Jan 1857. Thanks Lord Canning for his letter of 18 Dec about the negotiations. The Amir left well satisfied. The subsidy will pay for the upkeep of all his regular troops. Even in the Amir's Camp many of his men offered to desert and join the Guides, if Major Lumsden would have them, for the soldiers are wretchedly equipped and paid. All the leading Chiefs are hostile to the Amir. Sir John felt no confidence in the Amir, does not believe he will remain faithful one day longer than seems convenient. He has no sense of shame, he sent Lawrence as his only present some worn out horses and mules. Lawrence and Edwardes asked the Dost to show them, as a sign of his good faith, the papers containing the Dost's negotiations with the Maharajah of Cashmere. The Dost denied that he had any such papers, but seemed to gain a higher view of the intelligence of the British officers when they obviously disbelieved him. Sir John discusses the future of Herat; perhaps Major Lumsden will be able to give some information about a chief who might be able to rule Herat. Is pleased that Lord Canning is against attacking Herat from the Indian side. Does not think the natives of India will trouble themselves about Herat being in the hands of an enemy. Does not think that any invading force could reach India through Afghanistan and not be defeated on the plains. The Amir seemed pleased with Lord Canning's message, and described the kindness with which he was treated when in India as a prisoner.

47a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 4 Feb 1857. Replies about the Public Works Department Colonel Napier, though he has been long Lawrence's personal friend, is not the man for the job. Major Laughton is greatly disliked by the Engineers, because he does not behave like a gentleman. Cannot think of another officer, dismisses Major Anderson and Colonel Boileau as unsuitable. Major Ommaney or Lieutenant Colonel Durand might answer. Suggests that there should be two Chief Engineers and that an Engineer be attached to the Chief Commissioner's office as Secretary in the Public Works Department. Describes the great increase of business.

48. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 24 Feb 1857. Believes the Bozdars and Wuzerees will be punished well by Brigadier Chamberlain, if only they will stand their ground. Thinks the Wuzerees are Afghans and the Bozdars Belochis, but neither have anything to do with the Dost, they are both independent tribes. Lieutenant Godby is ill, Lawrence has offered the temporary command of the Guides to Lieutenant Daly, should he refuse it will be offered to Lieutenant Hardinge. Lieutenant Battye might act as 2nd in command, and Lieutenant Kennedy might act for Lieutenant Battye. Sir John is sure that his brother will do all in his power to justify his selection for Oudh, but his health is not good, and he does not much like sedentary occupation. The salt revenue is flourishing.

49. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Shahpoor, 1 Mar 1857. Has suggested officially that Major Lumsden and the Vakeel at Kabul should correspond through Colonel Edwardes, who gets on well with the Afghans. As it is likely that part of the Punjab Force will be needed for service in Persia, suggests that the full complement of officers be maintained.

49a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 3 Mar 1857. Explains why he did nothing to hurry on the construction of the wall round cantonments at Peshawur. Believes the Momunds will renew their raids as soon as the Amir's subsidy stops. It is as well to be prepared, and there are no soldiers in the Peshawur except a handful of Guides who are fit for mountain warfare. The Punjab Rifles could be used in an emergency, but it is not desirable to employ them with the regular Native Infantry because of the difference in pay. Asks Lord Canning to decide on the question of holding Peshawur with Irregulars, as soon as possible. Two projects might be given up, if the Europeans are to be moved. One is the substitution of walls of burnt bricks for those of dried bricks. The other is the increase to the police in the Peshawur cantonments.

50. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 4 Mar 1857. Asks if a French geologist, Marcadieu, may be removed from the Punjab. He was sent by the Supreme Government, but is little use.

51. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 13 Mar 1857. Sends two notes describing the fight with the Bozdars. Coke is said to be doing well. Wishes that rifles could be given to the whole of the Punjab Force. Two papers annexed: letters from Brigadier Chamberlain and Captain Pollock, 7 Mar, describing an action against the Bozdars at the Khan Bund. Coke has been wounded.

52. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 25 Mar 1857. Sends a note about the Bozdars. They may now keep to their engagements. Brigadier Chamberlain has postponed the expedition against the Wuzerees. Paper annexed: letter from Captain Pollock to Sir J Lawrence, 18 Mar, describing the action against the Bozdars in some detail. They have now agreed to the terms stated.

53. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 29 Mar 1857. Suggests Mr E Thornton to act in place of Mr McLeod, the Financial Commissioner George Campbell could replace Thornton as Commissioner of Jheelum. Another less suitable candidate is Major C Browne. Praises Campbell.

54. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 29 Mar 1857. Is glad that Major Ommaney is to be sent to the Public Works Department, it is still in great disorder. Repeats that he Chief Engineer of the Punjab has too much to do, the expenditure in the Punjab is more than 60 lakhs, whereas in the North West Provinces the expenditure is about 5 lakhs. Major Lumsden is well on his way. Lawrence did not let him start before the Amir wished it, and there has been much snow to prevent him leaving. There are not more than 70 men going with him, of which not more than 50 are really soldiers.

54a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 21 Apr 1857. Has heard that Founder Khan has arrived at Kabul and that the Lumsdens had passed on towards Kandahar. The Persians have only a small force in Herat. Has not yet told the Dost of the peace with Persia, but thinks he should be told, to prevent him raising more troops, and also to make it clear that the British have forced Persia to give up Herat. Presumes that Bushire will not be given up until the Persians are out of Herat. The Lumsdens might go on to Herat to witness the evacuation. Sends a note from Mr Barnes, Commissioner of the Cis-Sutlej states, on the excitement among the sepoys. Has no doubt that the sepoys are the authors of the fires, and that the cartridges are at the bottom of the ill feeling. The sepoys are docile and faithful but once they get an idea into their heads, it is difficult to alter it, they are obstinate and bigoted. Most are of the same caste and part of India, and therefore have common feelings and prejudices. Believes the feeling will subside. Thinks an example should be made of such Regiments as the 19th. Maharajah Golab Sing seems to have got over his present illness, but is unlikely to last six months. It is generally thought that there will be a disturbance at his death. Lawrence has been more than 10 years in the Punjab and except for a month in Calcutta in 1856, has never had a day's rest. Asks if he may go to Cashmere for a month if all is quiet on the Frontier. Lawrence has suggested that the sepoys be given plenty of work to do, long guard duties, frequent roll-calls, and be forbidden to leave their lines at night. Paper annexed: letter from G C Barnes to Sir J Lawrence, 19 Apr, describing fires at a military station. A trooper of the 9th Lancers came upon a body of natives, mainly sepoys, being harangued by a fakir; the trooper was maltreated and spat at. Ammunition has just been served out to the sepoys who are to begin shooting on Monday. The men have asked to be allowed not to use the cartridges, but this has been refused. There is bad feeling among the sepoys, the nights are very dark, and the authorities are uncertain. The General is Sir H Barnard, the Brigadier is Colonel Hallifax.

55. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 27 Apr 1857. Agrees that the terms of the Treaty concerning Herat are better than expected. He will write to the Amir to ask him to refrain from hostilities. Article VII will give Persia a chance to collect a Force against Herat, but seems fair. The ruler of Herat should not be a Suddozai, as the Home authorities seem to be considering, for such a one would always betray Herat to the Persians when required. England must make up her mind about Persia, either to abandon her entirely to the Russians, or make a decided stand in her favour. Persia alone cannot stand up to Russia, and England and Persia would be too much for Russia. If Commissioners are to be sent to Herat, suggests Major Lumsden. Asks if Lumsden may be paid more. Recommends that Herat be secured for the Amir, if possible.

56. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Sealkote, 4 May 1857. Lawrence has come to Sealkote to see the new school of musketry and to judge the feeling among the sepoys. The muskets are very popular, no hesitation or reluctance on the part of the men appears. The men sent to the school have not been well chosen, except from the Irregulars, as many are old and feeble, and will make poor instructors. Lawrence has presented 6 small prizes for the shooting.

57. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 13 May 1857. Writes about the mutinies at Meerut, Delhi, and near-mutiny at Amballah. It is difficult to see what is the cause of it all. He is told that the cartridge question was the commencement of the feeling, and that now the sepoys think that Government means to get rid of them. The circulation of the chapatti some months before was connected, it was the symbol of the sepoys’ food, and its circulation was to say that they must all hold together, or they would lose all. The European Force in India is so small that it may be worn down and destroyed. It is of the highest importance that the Irregulars be increased as soon as possible. Lawrence thinks the Native Artillery and Irregular Cavalry will prove more faithful, but would like the power to raise 1,000 horse. Lawrence had given up his idea of going to Cashmere. Has proposed to the Commander in Chief to recall all officers going there. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Sir J Lawrence to General Anson, Rawalpindee, 13 May, sending a copy of a telegraph he has sent to Mr Forsyth, Deputy Commissioner at Umballa (not annexed). Presumes that the European Force at Meerut will have acted against its own mutineers, but if not, peremptory orders should be sent down. The next step will be to recover Delhi, a picked force from Meerut and Umballa could not fail. Unless this is done, the insurrection will spread. The European Regiments could reach Delhi in 6 or 7 marches after settling Umballah. Suggests a moveable column, under Brigadier Sydney Cotton, to deal with the country between the Sutlej and the Khyber; lists the Regiments required for the column. The column would move over the country dealing with any trouble: Lawrence would accompany it. Time is of the greatest importance, if the General will sanction the arrangement, Cotton and Lawrence will arrange the details. Lawrence considers this the greatest crisis which has ever occurred in India. The European Force is so small, that unless effectively handled at the outset, it will prove unequal to the emergency. Should Cotton not be available, any other able officer might command the column; Chamberlain's rank is a difficulty.

58. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 13 May 1857. Has heard that the sepoys do not understand that the cartridges have been given up, while they do know that sepoys have been hanged, and a regiment disbanded. An explanation is to be given to the sepoys. All letters to and from sepoys are to be opened.

59. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 23 May 1857. Lawrence has asked Mr Barnes, the Commissioner of the Cis-Sutlej Division, to send Lord Canning full information. The Commander in Chief must advance on Meerut, extricate the force there, and enable them to act, to move on Delhi or Agra. The Guides have been sent towards Ferozepore and Kurnaul, and the moveable column is ready, under Chamberlain. It seems that the regular native army have missed their chance, but it will not be safe so long as Delhi holds out, and the insurrection about Meerut is not put down. So long as the Irregulars remain loyal all will be well, but if they mutiny, the Frontier will have to be abandoned and the Europeans concentrated. Even so Sir John thinks he should be able to hold his own until the cold weather. The Irregulars are behaving admirably at present. The 55th Native Infantry has mutinied. Brigadier Cotton has disarmed three native corps of infantry, and the 5th Cavalry. Describes the troops in the Peshawur Valley. Edwardes and Nicholson are raising new levies, so that on the whole Lawrence thinks Peshawur can be held, even if all the Native Infantry revolt. Describes other troop dispositions. Lord Canning need not fear for the Punjab. Begs Lord Canning not to authorize the raising of any new regular Native Infantry of any kind, the time has come for a thorough reform of the Native Army. The regular regiments might be divided into three classes, the really faithful, to be maintained; the discontented and mutinous, to be disbanded; and the insurgent, who broke into open mutiny, to be hunted down, hanged, transported for life, or imprisoned.

60. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 10 Jun 1857. Has not written because his letters take so long to reach Calcutta. Copies of despatches have been sent by Bombay and Calcutta. The Punjab has been quiet. The delay in advancing on Delhi has proved most disastrous for the North West. Lawrence did all he could to hasten the move, but in vain. All the Staff were against it, the difficulties were indeed great but might have been overcome. The European regiments had only 10 rounds of ammunition per man, while the Native Regiments had 40. The greatest mistake was leaving any Native troops behind without disarming them. Lawrence believes that if Delhi does not fall, not a man of the regular Army will remain true. Only Cotton, Edwardes and Nicholson have shown real energy. Hopes that Canning has written to England for reinforcements, 20,000 Infantry will not be too much. The three great points in the Punjab to be held are Peshawur, Lahore including Umritsur, and Multan. If any disaster occurs at Delhi, or much delay, and should the Hindustani Cavalry desert, Lawrence does not think it will be possible to hold all three. Suggests that Peshawur might be abandoned to save the rest. Sends a copy of a letter to Edwardes on this point. Does not think Edwardes will agree. Asks Canning to telegraph his views through Lord Elphinstone. He would not give up Peshawur so long as he sees a prospect of success. But fears that in Aug and Sep the larger portion of the Europeans will be down with sickness. Lawrence sees no value in Peshawur save as a good base of operations in the event of invasion from the west, and as a good practical school for officers. Many good soldiers affirm that the Indus would provide a better boundary. To surrender Peshawur to the Afghans would bind them to the British. Does not think the retirement would be disastrous, as the army is unbeaten. Disaster at Delhi would lead to endless calamities. The country is disorganized and troops from England cannot arrive before Dec. Sir John will do his best to stem the tide. It would be useful if Lord Canning could delegate authority to Lawrence to act on the Governor General's behalf in the Punjab. Paper annexed: extract from a letter from the Chief Commissioner of the Punjab to Lieutenant Colonel Edwardes, Commissioner and Superintendent Peshawur Division, 9 Jun 1857, reporting further mutinies. Suggests that it may become necessary to concentrate the European troops, and give up Peshawur. The place might be offered to the Amir, to hold for the British, on the promise that he would be given it if he remained true. Attock could be held in strength, and the Indus made the boundary. Asks Edwardes to consult Cotton and Nicholson.

61. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 14 Jun 1857. Reports all well in the Punjab. The Punjab Corps are returning from furlough, and being sent down to Delhi. The mismanagement at Meerut and the delay at Headquarters has turned a disturbance into a struggle for supremacy. Points out that he criticised General Hewitt's appointment some years ago; remarks on his incapacity and criticises General Johnstone. Describes the disarming of the troops at Mooltan by Major Chamberlain. Is sending reinforcements to General Reed. Does not think there is anyone of much ability at Headquarters. Has offered either Chamberlain or Nicholson to Reed, who chose Chamberlain. Nicholson should be made a Brigadier General and be given command of the moveable column. Maharajah Golab Sing is profuse in his offers of service, and Lawrence may borrow some money from him. Does not think the Maharajah will attack the British. The Sikh Chiefs of the Cis-Sutlej states have behaved admirably. Lawrence cannot praise the efforts of the Maharajah of Putiala and of the Rajah of Jheend too highly.

62. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 17 Jun 1857. Writes that when General Anson was about to march from Amballah, Lawrence offered him any officer in the Punjab to accompany him to Delhi, but none was asked for. Seeing that no Civilian of any mark was with the force, Lawrence has suggested to Mr Colvin sending Mr Charles Saunders. General Reed has appointed Brigadier N Chamberlain, Acting Adjutant General and Lieutenant Colonel Nicholson, Brigadier General for the moveable column. Lists troops being sent to Delhi from the Punjab. All is well in the Punjab recruiting is going on well.

63. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 29 Jun 1857. Writes that he has not heard from Lord Canning since 26 May. No news whatever comes from below Allahabad and Cawnpore, and very seldom from so far down. He gathers that Lucknow still holds out, and that the European regiments have arrived. The force before Delhi must be 7,000 or 8,000 men. But the rebels must now be very numerous, and they are evidently very enterprising. Does not think Delhi will be taken before the cold weather and arrival of reinforcements from England. The soldiers fight well, but Lawrence does not think the leaders as able and as active as desirable. Neville Chamberlain has been ill ever since he joined. Lawrence urged Reed to supersede General Hewitt at Meerut, but he refused on the grounds that Hewitt could do no harm. But as long as Hewitt commands at Meerut, the troops at Meerut will do nothing. All is well in the Punjab, many old Sikhs are volunteering for service. Does not like to raise too many soldiers until they are counter-balanced by more Europeans. Money is needed, which England should supply. The North West Provinces for the time being are lost. Trade is paralysed, and the crops unsown. All kinds of munitions will be needed. Soon there will not be enough ammunition for the Enfield rifles in use. Lawrence has offered about 2,000 of Gholab Sing's troops to Reed, to maintain his communications with Kurnaul. Thinks it would be politic to continue to subsidise the Amir Dost Mahomed.

64. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 5 Jul 1857. Sends copy of a letter from Sir H Barnard, on affairs at Delhi. Since it was written the sortie of the 3rd has occurred, of which nothing is known save that the rebels were repulsed. It seems that the rebels show enterprise, but do not fight well, save the Artillery. Regrets the opportunities neglected by the British. General Reed seems to think that General Hewitt had done well rather than otherwise. The Punjab will manage very well, but cannot spare any more assistance to the Commander in Chief Hopes Canning has written home for many more European troops. Fears the disaffection may spread to the Bombay Army, which has many Hindustanis in its ranks. Any amount of good Infantry can be raised in the Punjab asks for approval to form new regiments. After the fall of Delhi suggests that the Hindustani sepoys should be allowed to take their discharge. Urges Lord Canning to come up-country as soon as possible after the arrival of the European troops. If Delhi is taken, Lawrence believes that disaffection will cease to spread. Suggests that regiments could be sent from the Cape. Sends on a message from Delhi attached to his official letter (not annexed). Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Sir H Barnard, to Sir J Lawrence, Camp above Delhi, 1 Jul, describing the condition of the attacking force, in pessimistic terms. Barnard wishes Delhi could have been left to its fate, and his force used elsewhere. After 10 defeats by much smaller forces, the prestige of European supremacy runs no risk of being weakened in the mind of the native. Brigadier Chamberlain is useful, and in favour of attacking Delhi. Barnard is willing to try, provided he can secure the position of his sick and wounded, and his supplies. The enemy harass the force from the jungle. The Bareilly people are arriving just as the Garrison of Delhi contemplated flight. Bagput was a bad business, Captain McAndrew has been called upon for an explanation.

64a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 6 Jul 1857. Sends some papers. He is not aware of Lord Canning's views, but believes the policy indicated is the best in the circumstances. It would be best to storm Delhi, but the British do not possess the means, and there is much danger that an assault would fail. If the mutineers are deprived of Delhi, the most important political consequences will follow. The defection of the King will cripple the Mahommedan party. Lawrence doubts very much if the King will be able to give the British Delhi, but if he can admit a single Regiment into the Palace, the city would soon become untenable to the enemy. It seems that if Barnard were left to his own judgement, he would not risk an assault; but he is unable to grasp the whole political situation. Lawrence does not believes that any Regiment of the Line in Bengal with the exception of the 66th will remain loyal. Knows of no regiment in the Punjab composed of Hindustanis trustworthy. The Army before Delhi is in a very critical state. No reliable news reaches the Punjab from below. Has just heard that Sir H Barnard died on 5 Jul of cholera. Suggests that Brigadier General Chamberlain be appointed to command the Army before Delhi. Sends a note from Cotton, with comments. Two papers annexed: note from Sydney Cotton to Lawrence, Peshawur, 19 Jun, suggesting that some carts belonging to the Engineers be kept at various stations named for the conveyance of troops. Suggests that officers of the Company's Army be attached to Her Majesty's Regiments on their first landing in India. Telegram from the Provisional Commander in Chief, Delhi, to Lawrence, 5 Jul, reporting that the King is said to be anxious to come to terms, provided his former position and pension are secured to him; asks for the Chief Commissioner's views. Also copy of reply, 5 Jul, recommending that if the King can give the British possession of Delhi, Lawrence would suggest his position and pension be guaranteed, provided it can be shown that he did not order any of the murders of the British. He should not be given the Palace, and he should leave Delhi. This seems essential. Lawrence has no idea what Government has ordered, but these are his views.

65. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 8 Jul 1857. Sends a copy of a letter from the late General Barnard, part of which was written the day before he died. He has heard from General Reed that the King of Delhi proposed to open one of the gates of the Palace and admit the British. This seems feasible, though care will be necessary to guard against treachery. Reports a fierce fight at Jheelum over the disarming of the 14th Native Infantry. Simultaneously the 58th and 2nd Companies of the 14th were disarmed at Rawalpindee. Now there are only 6 Regiments of Native Infantry armed in the Punjab. There will be a shortage of money in Sep and Oct. The Bombay Government has only been able to spare 10 lakhs of Rupees. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from General Barnard to Lawrence, 28 Jun - 3 Jul, on the proceedings of the Army before Delhi. But for the prestige, Barnard would leave Delhi alone. Brigadier General Chamberlain will be a great help. The Bhagput affairs has led to bad results. If the Gwalior people were on their way to Delhi, the position would become untenable. On 2 Jul Barnard was prepared to gamble on attacking, but word of a great assault by the enemy, and outbreak of disaffection in Nicholson's regiment caused the attack to be put off. Few men were ever placed in a more painfully responsible position, for if Barnard loses his small force, it will be felt all over the Punjab. He is now awaiting an attack from the Bareilly men. General Johnstone could have saved him from the Jullundhur men, and General Hewitt from the Bareilly. Captain McAndrew should be sent to another employment, or else he will have to be superseded for his behaviour at Bhagput.

66. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 15 Jul 1857. Urges Lord Canning to appoint a Commander for the troops before Delhi. Reed is physically unequal to the duty. Chamberlain should be given command; or Brigadier General Havelock, unless Canning can spare Sir Henry Lawrence. Every European soldier who can be spared should be sent up country. All is well in the Punjab, but Lawrence cannot hold Peshawur and reinforce the Army before Delhi. Every Hindustani is waiting for the opportunity to strike. More disarmaments have taken place. There is a great shortage of Artillerymen, suggests some be brought from St Helena.

67. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 21 Jul 1857. Sends copies of two letters from General Wilson and Chamberlain. Has heard that Cawnpore fell on or about the 24th, and that everyone was murdered. Evidently the British position at Delhi is desperate. Energetic leadership is needed, names Sir H Lawrence, General Grant, Colonel Havelock, General Nicholson. Some more reinforcements are being sent from the Punjab, perhaps more than can be safely spared. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from General Wilson to Lawrence, Camp before Delhi, 18 Jul, reporting on the position at Delhi. General Reed has been obliged to leave on medical certificate. Has decided that any attempt to assault the City would end in defeat and disaster. The British are the besieged rather than the besiegers. Wilson will hold his position to the last, but must be strongly and speedily reinforced. Unless the Army is reinforced it will be forced to retreat towards Kurnaul. Confidential. Also copy of letter from Chamberlain, written by a friend as he is disabled, 15 Jul. Chamberlain does not think there is a single officer in Camp fit to take the command. General Reid is quite broken down. None of the European Regiments except the weak 60th Rifles, is under the least control. An attempt to take the City in present circumstances might bring on the most serious consequences. The native troops are under infinitely better discipline. than the Europeans. The mutineers are increasing daily.

68. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 24 Jul 1857. Has received Lord Canning's letter of 29 Jun. Sir Henry Lawrence has written of Wheeler's fate, Lucknow seemed quite safe on the 29th. If Neill only pushes steadily on, he will relieve Lucknow without fail. His great difficulty will be for boats to cross the Ganges. Hopes a steamer has been sent up the Ganges from Allahabad. After relieving Lucknow, Neill should push on up-country towards Delhi. Believes that Delhi would have fallen had it been attacked when the Army first arrived. Now the Army is little stronger than when it arrived. To retire would mean certain ruin and disgrace. Is sending down all the troops he can spare. Should further aid be required, Peshawur and Kohat would have to be abandoned. It seems vain to attempt to hold Lahore, and insanity to try to retain Peshawur, if the Army is driven from Delhi. Suggests bringing the troops across the Indus and sending them to Delhi. All the women and children should be sent down river to Kurrachee, and every fighting man should be sent to join the Army before Delhi or to hold Lahore as might be expedient. Sends copy of a letter he has written to Edwardes. Edwardes, Cotton and Nicholson are for holding Peshawur to the last, Lawrence disagrees. Asks for orders. He asked for full powers from Canning to decide this and other important matters. Nicholson has gone to Delhi with the reinforcements. Lord Canning will have heard of the illness and incapacity of Mr Colvin. Sir Henry Lawrence would have made a better Commander in Chief than Grant, but Sir John did not like to mention him, and thought he was not available. At least 24 regiments will be required for India, and much artillery. If Sir John did not dislike spending any money which can be avoided, he could send agents to Kandahar and Kabul with instructions to buy good horses. Only three regiments have been disbanded, most have been kept down. Out of 42 Regiments 12 1/2 have mutinied, of which 3 1/2 have been destroyed, and 19 1/2 are without arms. Suggests the Mission to Kandahar be recalled. Lists some casualties at Delhi in repelling a sortie. Paper annexed: extract of a letter from Sir J Lawrence to Colonel Edwardes, Commissioner of Peshawur, 24 Jul, in favour of the abandonment of Kohat and Peshawur, and the importance of winning the battle at Delhi at all costs.

68a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 25 Jul 1857. Recommends the raising of Irregular Corps of Sonthals, Mhairs and Bheels. Reports a successful action at Yoosufzai.

69. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 27 Jul 1857. Reports all well in the Punjab. Has heard that the Commander in Chief is at Cawnpore with six regiments. He will of course relieve Lucknow and then push on as quickly as possible for Delhi, which should then fall in a month. Sends copy of his last letter in case it should be lost. Paper annexed: copy of letter from Lawrence to Canning, 24 Jul, [as Number 68 above].

70. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 5 Aug 1857. Reports all well in the Punjab. A village near Peshawur has been completely destroyed, which will have a good effect. The remnants of the 55th Native Infantry and 26th Native Infantry have been cut up or captured. The only anxiety now is to keep the disarmed troops quiet. Golab Sing is reported to be very ill. If the Maharajah dies, it is not certain whether the Contingent of his troops will be available or not, but probably it will. News of Havelock has reached Lawrence. After securing Lucknow, Havelock should march right on to Delhi, regardless of all other considerations.

71. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 8 Aug 1857. Received the news of his brother's death on the 6th; praises him. He was the founder and main supporter of the Lawrence Asylum as a refuge for the destitute children of European soldiers. Asks the Government, in recognition of his brother's services, to place the Asylum on a sounder footing.

72. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 1 - 2 Aug 1857. Sends a letter from Brigadier Chamberlain Wilson seems to be a great improvement on former chiefs. There will be a shortage of cavalry in the cold weather, so Lawrence hopes to have his regiment ready. There is no doubt that at present the Sikhs are on the side of Government. The 26th Native Infantry have murdered their Commanding Officer and escaped to the north. Asks to what extent he should raise troops. All is still quiet in the Punjab. Nicholson has been delayed by the rain. Hopes the rebels will not cut communications. As he has received no orders to the contrary, is still giving the Amir 1 lakh a month. Postscript, 2 Aug, most of the 26th Native Infantry have been killed or captured and shot. Paper annexed: note from Brigadier Chamberlain to Lawrence, Camp before Delhi, 27 Jul. in praise of Brigadier Wilson, a steady thoughtful officer not likely to commit a rash act, who will probably conduct operations as well as any other selection. General Barnard would never come to any decision. Now that a defensive course has been decided upon, the defences have been greatly improved. Chamberlain is much improved in health. The force under Nicholson will be a great addition, suggests that Lawrence is weakening his own position too much.

73. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 14 Aug 1857. Acknowledges Lord Canning's letter of 15 Jul. Will hold on to Peshawur to the last as ordered. Has heard of another victory by Havelock. Hopes he will reach Lucknow in time, and then return to Cawnpore. Thinks Oudh should be abandoned for the present. Urges the importance of taking Delhi. Urges the formation of new regiments from the Gurkhas and wild tribes. More Sikhs can be recruited. Lawrence is chary of enlisting too many, lest they should feel their own strength. Does not recommend the enlisting of many Afridis or Pathans. Has long believed that there were too many native troops in comparison with the number of Europeans. Advocates the mixture of races in native regiments and three kinds of native troops, of the Line, Irregulars, and Police Corps. All is well in the Punjab. The troops at Delhi have captured four guns and are in good spirits. Chamberlain's being wounded was a great loss, but Nicholson will supply his place. Agrees that Allahabad must be held strongly as the gate into the Upper Provinces.

73a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 14 Aug 1857. Thanks Lord Canning for his letter about the death of Sir Henry. Hopes the Government will not forget the Asylum.

74. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 31 Aug 1857. Sends a list of his demi-official letters to the Governor General since 28 Jun, and a copy of his letter to General Wilson. Wilson seems to lack decision. It is important to attack before the Europeans are weakened by disease. A regiment of Aheers has been suggested. Hopes that as soon as Delhi falls all the untrustworthy Poorbees may be disbanded. If sickness increases at Peshawur, the situation will be dangerous. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Lawrence to General Wilson, 29 Aug, urging Wilson to attack Delhi. Suggests that Wilson should settle his future plans after taking the City. One European regiment should be sent back to the Punjab. Also annexed: note of the dates or letters sent to the Governor General

75. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 6 Sep 1857. Fears that many of his letters have been lost. Sends a copy of letter from General Wilson. Trusts that Delhi will fall before the 11th; on that day 54 years ago the British first took it. Everything possible has been done for Delhi, all possible troops have been sent, even the sandbags for the batteries have been made and despatched from the Punjab. Names troops moving to Delhi. The rains have added to the difficulties of transport. Colonel Ross, Commissioner of Leia, has just died, asks for his post to be given to Nicholson. He is just the man for the post, and but for him, perhaps the Army could not now be in a position to take Delhi. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from General Wilson to Lawrence, Camp before Delhi, 2 Sep. As soon as Wilson learnt that there was no chance of Havelock's Force coming to his assistance, he decided to assault the City immediately the siege train from Ferozepore arrived, which should be on the 4th. Wilde's Corps and the Jummoo troops have been delayed by the rain, he must wait for them. Sickness is increasing. Wilson considers the risk of making the assault without the power of regularly breaching the walls very great, but the effort must be made. The rebels have no leaders and are quarrelling amongst themselves.

75a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 13 Sep 1857. Sends two notes from Delhi, and an official bulletin giving the news down to about 5pm on the 12th. Is glad that Nicholson is to command the pursuing column. All is well in the Punjab, except at Hazara, where there may be a rising if Delhi does not fall. Lawrence is doing his best to strengthen his position there, but is hampered by so many Hindustanis, and by incapable officers in power. The proposed visit of the Dost to Jellalabad is probably to spy out the land to enable him to take advantage of events. Lawrence has ordered another Regiment of Sikh Infantry to be raised, making 16 new regiments in all. The new Corps of Cavalry should be able to leave by 1 Oct. Regiments and parts of regiments equal to 18 regiments of cavalry have mutinied. Two have been raised in the Punjab. Lawrence will begin at once to raise a 3rd. Asks for orders as to how many troops he should raise. Thinks there should not be as many Cavalry Regiments as formerly. Suggests that after the fall of Delhi the Mounted Levies might replace some of the Punjab Cavalry in the Derajat. Mr Colvin has asked Lawrence for Police of various kinds, explains what has been done. Three papers annexed: letter from General Wilson to Lawrence, Camp before Delhi, 10 Sep, reporting the placing of the batteries and their successes. An enemy sortie was quickly repelled. The men are in good spirits. There are however nearly 2,500 sick and wounded. Letter from John Nicholson to Lawrence, before Delhi, 10 Aug, there has been a delay of another day with the breaching batteries, but Nicholson trusts and believes it is the last. The Number 3 Battery is being erected in the Custom House. Printed report, Chief Commissioner's Office, Lahore, 12 Sep, on the bombardment of Delhi. 132 of the Jhelum mutineers have arrived at Gujarat, handed over by the authorities of the Maharajah Runbeer Singh.

75b. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 13 Sep 1857. Sends an extract from a letter from Lieutenant Gowan, 18th Native Infantry to his Colonel Colin Troup. Gowan is concealed by Hindu villagers in the Bareilly District. Other officers are concealed by the people. He describes the whole of the Hindu population as longing for the British return. Sir John says that when Delhi falls there will be difficulty in raising native troops. It will be difficult to know who is trustworthy. Sir John has had a letter from his brother, who is pursuing the Joudpore Legion which had mutinied. He gives an unsatisfactory account of the feeling in the Bombay Army, this is no wonder when there are so many Hindustanis among the men. Paper annexed: extract from a letter dated 13 - 18 Aug. from Lieutenant Gowan, Adjutant of the 18th Native Infantry and believed to be addressed to his Colonel. The Lieutenant has sent off two letters to Havelock assuring him that the Hindus are all on the Government's side. Gowan could easily raise a force of 2,000 men, chiefly Rajputs. The Thakoors are making arrangements for aiding the British troops when they approach with men and money. They have no cavalry or guns. They are anxious to destroy Bareilly and the Moosulmans who tyrannise over them. At Bareilly the mutineers are quarrelling amongst themselves, and some are deserting.

76. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 27 Sep 1857. Writes that Captain Low who is carrying despatches from Delhi will tell Lord Canning the news. There has been an outbreak in the country between Lahore and Multan and the post has been interrupted for the last 12 days. The line is expected to be reopened shortly. In the mean time Lawrence has laid a chain of camels for a post from Ferozepore down the left bank of the Indus. Hopes as many troops as possible are coming from England.

76a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 28 Oct 1857. Writes that the Gogeira insurrection is being extinguished. Had there been a more capable officer, it would not have lasted a week. The rebels had no arms except those they took from the Police, and the heavy sticks with which they tend their cattle. The jungle however is very dense. Neville Chamberlain who was appointed Adjutant General wishes to return to his post of Brigadier of the Punjab Force. Hopes he can be confirmed in his rank of Brigadier General. Praises Chamberlain, Captain Alex Taylor and John Nicholson for their actions at Delhi. Asks for the permanent appointment of Brigadier General Cotton to the Divisional Staff. Without him, Peshawur could hardly have been held. All has subsided since the fall of Delhi. The Moveable Column though poorly commanded has done a good deal. Is sorry it passed by the wretches about Furruckabad. The new Regiment of Sikh Cavalry was retained for the Gogeira disturbance, but Lawrence hopes to send them in Nov towards Cawnpore.

76b. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 4 Dec 1857. Thanks Lord Canning for the public acknowledgment of his services. He has been very fortunate in his officers, names Montgomery, Edwardes, Macpherson and Nicholson. Hopes that Nicholson's widowed mother will be given a good pension. If Delhi is to be preserved as a City, hopes Canning will put a stop to the work of the Prize Agents. Delhi should be freed from martial law, and put under a soldier of energy and character to keep the troops in order, and a strong police and a good Magistrate to keep peace. Lawrence believes in prompt and severe punishment, but the systematic spoliation which is going on at Delhi will exasperate the natives and widen the breach. Is sending Police to the North West Provinces. Has been asked by the President of the Board of Control to try to help Colonel Steinbeck to an appointment; does not know what to do with him.

76c. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, between Lahore and Multan, 24 Dec 1857. Urges that the pay of the Irregular Cavalry be raised, and also that of the Irregular Mounted Levies. Has sent 700 Cavalry to the Commander in Chief and will send more.

76d. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 7 Jan 1858. Asks to be relieved from 1 Mar. He is very unwell and has been told to leave the country. All is well in the Punjab. Some additional troops have been sent there.

77. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, near Lodhiana, 1 Feb 1858. Asks if he should raise some more Cavalry. Lists the Punjab Cavalry already available in India. Believes that something like an amnesty for the least guilty of the mutineers and rebels in Oudh would be very politic. Suggests a proclamation declaring that mutineers who have not murdered their officers, or women and children, and who give up their arms, shall be allowed to go home and live unmolested; with similar terms for the rebels. It would then be easier to deal with the desperate men. At present they all hold together from the very hopelessness of their condition, and the guerrilla war might go on endlessly. Argues in favour of an amnesty.

77a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, near Amballah en route for Delhi, 16 Feb 1858. Has sent troops to Roorkee and will send more when ammunition comes. This force will be commanded by Major Coke, and will when joined by a force from Futteghur or Meerut serve to clean up and hold Northern Rohilkund. The Jhujjer Territory which will be confiscated following the misconduct of the Nawab who has been hanged, is estimated to yield 11 lakhs of Rupees a year. Describes the country. Part of it is held by the Jummoo Contingent, who are anxious to return home, and who will be replaced by some of Patiala's troops. Suggests that the permanent occupation of all confiscated lands in the Delhi Territory be settled. Praises the loyalty of the Cis- Sutlej chiefs, names Patiala, Jheend and Nubhah, suggests they should be rewarded out of confiscated lands, to the value given. Hopes that Mr Temple will be allowed to return quickly.

78. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 27 Feb 1858. Thanks Lord Canning for his kind letter with those from the Heralds' Office. It is the only letter he has received since the capture of Delhi. Lists the dates of the letters he has sent.

78a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 1 Mar 1858. Sends a note from Colonel Davies of the Artillery, and praises him. George Lawrence has asked for the services of Captain Daly the present Commandant of the Guides, on Major Lumsden's return from Kandahar. Memorandum by Canning, endorsed on letter; the resignation has been published in Orders, and promotions made in his room. Governor General cannot comply, 24 Mar. Paper annexed: letter from Colonel Davies to Sir John Lawrence, 23 Feb, asking for his application to resign to be cancelled.

79. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Delhi, 11 Mar 1858. Recommends Edwardes' plan of an expedition against the Chief of Punjtar. The Delhi Territory is very quiet. Wishes for orders about the Palace and fortifications of Delhi. Has arranged for a Commission of three officers for the trial of rebels and mutineers, as the system of allowing every Judicial Officer to sentence to death did not work well. Directly Lucknow falls the Mahomedans should be allowed to return to their homes in the City, they will not settle down until this is done. Five regiments will soon be at Roorkee. With a Corps of Europeans and some guns the force might cross the Ganges and sweep all over Northern Rohilcund and prevent the rebels crossing into the Gangetic Doab.

79a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Delhi, 18 Mar 1858. Further to his telegram, recommends the permanent cantonment of two European regiments of Infantry at Delhi, though one would suffice with good arrangements. The Barracks should be inside the Palace. Would like to know whether to begin building hospitals and barracks or not. The City should be fortified. Criticises Brigadier Longfield and his Staff Officer Major Nicholls. Has postponed the demolition of the bastions of the City until he receives Lord Canning's detailed orders. Recommends that the Europeans be withdrawn from the Gates of the Town, the guard on the side towards the Jumna might be Sikhs or Gurkhas.

80. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Panipat, 21 Mar 1858. Sends extract of a letter from Major Lumsden at Kandahar, and recommends that the Mission be recalled at once. The situation is evidently very serious, with the Moollahs up against the Sirdar Hyder Khan. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Major Lumsden to Sir J Lawrence, Kandahar, 25 Feb, reporting the dangerous situation in Kandahar. The Moollahs have broken out against Hyder, and stoned his Kazee, and the troops show signs of fraternizing. Hyder has not the power at present to deny any proposition of the fanatics, who may quickly turn from stoning Hindus to the Feringees. Lumsden knows that Sir John does not want to recall the Mission on his own authority, and he will therefore hold on to the very last safe moment. Asks that if the order for his recall should come, that it should be sent up by express via Jacobabad, the Kabul road being closed. There is a rumour, probably false, that the Amir is dead.

81. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Philour, 10 Apr 1858. Lawrence has telegraphed a request that the Kuppoorthulla Contingent might not be accepted for employment in Oudh. The Contingents are little use under their own chiefs, and the chiefs expect an enormous reward. It is dangerous to raise too many troops in the Punjab, they may turn against the British. If more soldiers are absolutely necessary, suggests raising Pathans and Afridis from the Peshawur Valley, and makes recommendations as to how they should be treated. Asks the Governor General not to allow any troops to be raised, nor arrangements to be made on matters connected with the Punjab, so long as Lawrence is Chief Commissioner, without consulting him. To follow the other course will lead to disciplinary difficulties.

82. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 27 Apr 1858. Thanks Lord Canning for his last letter. Montgomery is an old friend, and Lawrence is ready to help him in any way he can. Mr Barnes is raising two regiments of Police Infantry and 500 Horse. The Kuppoorthulla men seem to be 1200 Infantry, 200 Cavalry and 3 guns. Lawrence is making up a Police Battalion. Wishes to know if more troops are to be raised, and if so, of what kind. Recommends Pathans and Afridis. Could raise a Ghurkha Regiment of Infantry which would be very useful at Hazaree, the Gurkhas are the best native troops.

83. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Rawalpindee, 18 May 1858. Sends a copy of a telegram from Brigadier Hartley. Does not think the case is conclusive against all the Wing of the 4th Native Infantry but some mischief is brewing. It is very difficult for the disarmed regiments to know what to do. Lists troops sent to Oudh. All the Europeans have been housed. Wishes the Kandahar Mission could be allowed to leave. Paper annexed: copy of telegram from Brigadier Hartley to Lawrence, Jullundhur, 16 May, reporting the finding of weapons and ammunition in the luggage of the 4th Native Infantry. Hartley believes all are implicated. Proposes to hold a General Court Martial for 40 men.

84. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 8 Jun 1858. Regrets the attack by the sepoys on Madhopore, but it may have good results. The Maharajah has been roused, and has seized some 250 of them. Discusses the difficult position of the Maharajah [of Kashmir]. Failure to recover Gwalior quickly will injure British interests. It may lead to a general revolt in Central India. It would be politic to prepare for a campaign on a large scale in the cold weather. Rather than see the war drag on, Lawrence will raise more Punjabi troops. Recommends mercy to the mutineers of those Corps which did not murder the British. If they are promised their lives and a safe return to their homes, good results will follow.

84a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 22 Jul 1858. Sends a copy of a letter to Lord Granville defending his actions in Jul 1857. Thinks that his conduct might have saved him from the derogatory remarks of Granville. He has also sent a copy to Lord Stanley. Paper annexed: letter from Lawrence to Granville (copy), Murree, 14 Jul 1858, objecting to part of Granville's speech in the House of Lords attacking alleged negotiations at Delhi. Parts of the letter have been marked by Lord Canning. Various papers annexed.

85. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 18 Sep 1858. Replies to Lord Canning's letter of 6 Sep. He has suffered many attacks, and has been more than once at the point of death. A year's rest would probably set him right. But if danger threatens at the time he is due to leave, he will remain at his post. Recommends Montgomery as his successor. There can be no question as to the relative importance of the Punjab and Oudh. Recommends that the Punjab be made a Lieutenant Governorship. Recommends a Secretary for the Public Works Department in the Punjab. The new Punjab Corps should be transferred to the Commander in Chief. Without these changes, doubts if any officer will be able to cope with the Punjab: Montgomery is much better at administering the country, than at sitting on the Council. Suggests George Barnes, Commissioner of the Cis Sutlej States, for Oudh, praises him. Mr McLeod and Thornton are both able men, but not suited to be the chief civil authority. Both would be contented under Montgomery, but not under Barnes, Edwardes or Frere. Discusses Edwardes and Frere.

86. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Murree, 30 Sep 1858. Replies to Canning's letters of 21 and 22 Sep. He would have been honoured to have the Lieutenant Governorship of the North West Provinces offered to him, but would not have hesitated to decline the post. When he wrote to Mr Edmonstone he did not intend to return to India unless the Punjab became a Lieutenant Governorship. Now he has heard that perhaps the last act of the Court of Directors has been to propose a pension of £2,000 a year for him. If this is confirmed, Sir John feels he would rather stay in England and look after his children than return to India; though he may change his mind after a year's rest. Under these circumstances Canning may feel unwilling to make the Punjab a Lieutenant Governorship. Lawrence would prefer having the Punjab and the Delhi Territory without Scind. These two large Provinces offer ample scope for the best officer in India. If the Punjab is to be made a Lieutenant Governorship for Lawrence, does not think it should be offered as a Chief Commissionership to Montgomery in Lawrence's absence. Montgomery should have the extra allowances, the extra staff of a Lieutenant Governor. The Lieutenant Governor is saved work, because he does not have to refer as much business to the Supreme Government as a Chief Commissioner. Comments on the size and difficulties of the Punjab, as opposed to Oudh. Lawrence will appoint a Private Secretary. The Public Works Department is his chief trouble. If Lawrence's pension is confirmed, he will not return.

87. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, 10 Oct 1858. To Mr Edmonstone, Rawalpindee, thanks him for his congratulations. The £2,000 a year is a substantial reward. The Council is an honourable distinction, rather than of much value. It would not, for many reasons, suit Lawrence to retire from the service at present. He wishes to have the option to return after a year's rest. He is sorry that in this matter his interests clash with those of Edmonstone. He gathers that Edmonstone may be appointed to the Punjab; asks in that case who is to have the North West Provinces? Lawrence always thought Edmonstone was to be the man, and hopes that this may still be the case. He will write to Barnes about Patiala affairs, but does not believe Mr Robertson's story.

88. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Campbellpoor, 16 Oct 1858. Writes than when the Multanee Regiment of Cavalry went down for service in Hindustan in Dec Lawrence promised them they should be relieved after one year. States the arrangements he has made for their relief. Wishes to know if he should keep the Multanee Cavalry as an Irregular Corps, or break it up. Recommends that it be retained, and sent to Peshawur. Asks if the relieving troops should be separate Corps, as they are now, or reformed into a regiment. Urges Canning to issue orders that officers are not to enlist men in the Punjab and Delhi without special sanction. A rule should be laid down showing the proportion of men of different Provinces allowed for all Native regiments. For want of such rules the Bengal Army which mutinied came to be recruited solely from Oudh and Behar for the Infantry, and mainly from round about Delhi for the Irregular Cavalry. Now the Government seems to be drifting into a similar system in the Punjab. It is dangerous to enlist so many troops from one Province. Asks for orders on his proposal to levy a cess to compensate people for their losses at Delhi; and for orders on his proposals about the fortifications of Delhi and the arming of the police, and permanent accommodation for the European troops.

89. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 23 Oct 1858. Reports his declining health. He has sent in his application for furlough in England on sick certificate. Hopes he can be relieved by 1 Jan 1859. All is quiet in the Punjab and on the Frontier. Most of the disarmed Regiments have been disbanded. The outbreak at Multan was due to mismanagement. The number of Punjabi soldiers should be reduced, especially the artillerymen. Hopes that Montgomery will be able to succeed him. Has not appointed a Private Secretary after all.

89a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, 7 Nov 1858. Reports all well on the Frontier. If the Amir only keeps quiet, all will go well. But it seems the general opinion that he is bent on mischief. A letter to he Maharajah of Jummoo has been intercepted, which shows that the Maharani of Lahore is at her old intrigues. Some people believe the Maharajah of Kashmir is not well disposed, though Lawrence does not agree. Some intrigue is going on at Jummoo. Colonel Edwardes is very annoyed at the way in which his application for furlough was refused. Hopes that Lord Canning may say something to soothe him, he is very sensitive. Edwardes deserves well of the Government, he and Nicholson saved Peshawur, Cotton could have done little without them. Lawrence hopes he (Lawrence) may go home.

90. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Jilum, 21 Nov 1858. Now believes that communication has been going on for some time between Jung Bahadoor and the Maharajah of Kashmir, and between the latter and Sultan Mahomed, the brother of the Kabul Amir. This information came from a high official of the Maharajah's. The Maharani of Lahore is also involved. The informant said that Jung Bahadoor had written that he would come down in Dec, and urged the Maharajah to make a simultaneous move on Lahore. The Maharajah replied that when Jung Bahadoor and the Maharani came as far as Simla he would move, and not before. Sultan Mahomed wrote that the Amir had made up his mind to come to Jellelebad and then set out against Peshawur, and that so far he had gained nothing by his forbearance. The Maharajah is personally well disposed to the British, but a priest who has great influence over him is inciting him to mischief. Lawrence does not believe all this, but thinks most is true. He has known the man since 1846. Comments. Is going to send Her Majesty's 51st to Lahore. The whole country is quiet. Urges that the number of Punjabi troops be reduced. Asks for European troops at Umballa to replace the 9th Lancers, who have left.

91. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp near Sealkote, 5 Dec 1858. Reports on his meeting with the Maharajah at Jummoo. He warned the Maharajah of the dangers of breaking his alliance with the British, and urged him to make peace with his cousin Rajah Jowahir Singh. Discusses the Maharajah's character. Various intrigues are still going on at Jummoo. During the last week two more messages have been received from Jung Bahadoor repeating that he was about to move against the British. The people of Kashmir are more satisfied, as the fiscal system has been relaxed, but the soldiers are still kept in arrears, and the Maharajah's illegitimate brothers are dissatisfied.

92. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Camp, Pusroor, 15 Dec 1858. Has been moving about the Jummoo Frontier. Is satisfied that there is nothing to fear from the Maharajah at present. Asks how he should dispose of the Multanee Cavalry. Colonel Edwardes suggests that the native Commandant, Hussun Khan Alizzi, should succeed Fouzdur Khan as the British representative at Kabul.

92a. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Lahore, 27 Dec 1858. Replies to Canning's telegram about the Foreign Secretary. Discusses Arthur Roberts, Commissioner of Jilum, who is pleasant but not equal to the post; Wynyard who is only mediocre; Temple who would be an excellent choice and who is one of the ablest officers in the service; and George Barnes who would be a good Foreign Secretary

93. Letter from Sir J Lawrence, Bombay, 12 Mar 1859. On leaving India thanks Lord Canning for the consideration and support Lawrence has received. Has decided to retire from the service if he can obtain one of the Annuities which has been allowed to the Bengal Civil Service for 1859 - 1860. He is very pleased Montgomery is to succeed him. Should he fail to obtain the annuity, he will not decide on his future course for the time being.